Explaining The Instagram Algorithm & How It ACTUALLY Works In 2020
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So you’ve heard probably about the Instagram algorithm and how it’s out to get all of us. But is it really?! I wanted to give you a recap on the latest 2020 info on the Instagram algorithm and how it can boost your growth as a brand on social media.
First, what is the Instagram algorithm?
In summary, the algorithm is a highly sophisticated system for how users find content across the platform. Initially, the algorithm was simply chronological meaning you’d see the newest posts on your feed without other factors playing a role. Now the algorithm is influenced by many factors that make each user’s algorithm person to their usage and what Instagram thinks they’ll like… quite literally.
The algorithm is always changing and evolving. The Instagram @creators account set to bust some of the most common myths and set the rumors straight, all of which will be featured in this post.
The Instagram algorithm is broken down into 3 main factors: INTEREST, RELATIONSHIP, TIMELINESS.
Instagram categorizes posts based on the images used, hashtags, and the type of content in the post, Instagram shows the interests or categories to you based on your usage. For example, I love watching dance videos on Instagram so most of my explore page is contrived of dancing videos (and I’m not complaining).
While the algorithm is no longer solely chronological, you are more likely to be shown more recent posts first so the timing does matter. A semi-chronological means timeliness should play a role in when you’re posting content. Sticking to the time your audience is most engaged on the app is best practice.
Instagram decides if you have a relationship with someone like family or friends based on obvious information it may know about you from Facebook, your location, and how you interact with them. Even if someone isn’t an in-person friend or family member, people you direct message and eople you search are likely to be categorized under this. Clearing your searches often ensures this factor isn’t skewed.
Instagram video vs photo: which does the algorithm favor?
Contrary to rumors, photos and videos are ranked equal on the feed. When it comes to the explore page, now that’s a different story. The explore page is a curated version of the algorithm and works similarly to show what Instagram thinks you want to see. On the explore page, videos get 4 x more real estate including stories, IGTV, and feed videos. Using more videos in your strategy can help you get discovered by more accounts.
On your feed, you’re more likely to see more photos or more videos depending on what you “like” and engage most with. With the nature of video content, they’re more likely to hold your attention longer and show up on your feed more.
What are the most important types of engagement on Instagram?
Instagram shared that comments, likes, reshares, and views for video posts are the most influential types of engagement on Instagram. When tracking your metrics and setting KPIs for your goals, keep these numbers at the forefront of your strategy.
With likes being removed from major countries like Australia and now the US, saves are becoming the hottest metric. Saves are like a “super like” and show Instagram anything bookmarked is a valuable piece of content. If a post gets high amounts of these types of engagement, that is a strong indicator to Instagram that it should show your content to more people
Consistency vs frequency: which matters more?
Consistency is key when it comes to showing up on Instagram. Social media expert Neil Patel explains,
“If you make a habit of posting several times a day and then transition to only a few times a week, you will start to lose followers and generate less engagement per post.”
Focus your attention on creating quality content and sticking to whatever schedule you create for yourself. Influencers are predicted to post less in 2020 at an average of only 2 posts a week, so more isn’t always better.
Instagram pods and bots: do they work?
ISSA NO FROM ME. In all seriousness, I firmly stand against inauthentic engagement strategies. Even Instagram pods are not good for long term success. Instagram recommended against them and explained that the algorithm adjusts eventually. Instead, focus on authentically engaging to grow your account. What you engage with most often is what will result in your feed, stories, and explore page. Consider this for reaching your dream clients from a brand perspective
These facts only scratch the surface on how the Instagram algorithm works and how you can use it strategically for growing your Instagram. If you’d like to listen to my full recap, tune into this podcast episode.